With Hurricane Helene hitting shore tonight, Floridians are being forced to board up homes once again.
“We will not be directly impacted by the storm but school will remain closed Thursday,” Principal Dr. Hector Maestre said.
As schools close on September 26, students and faculty turn to Helene preparation along with the rest of the state. According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Helene is “expected to bring life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and flooding rains to a large portion of Florida and the Southeastern United States.”
MyRadar reports that the storm at hand is expected to be a category 3 or 4 hurricane before landfall. The National Weather Service predicts winds from 111-129 miles per hour.
Hurricanes do not have to be disastrous if properly prepared. Knowing what steps to take before, during and after a hurricane can make all the difference.
Before a hurricane begins, gathering a disaster kit is essential. These kits include supplies like non-perishable food that can at least last four days, such as canned goods and energy bars.
Hurricanes often cause flooding, contaminating local water sources. Having bottled or stored water ensures a safe drinking option is accessible if fresh water becomes unavailable. Floridadisaster.org recommends one gallon of water per person per day.
A first aid kit is an essential component of a hurricane disaster kit because it will be useful in case of injuries and medical needs. Bandages, disinfectant wipes and basic medicines are recommended.
During a hurricane, power may go out. Flashlights, batteries and a portable charger are always imperative pieces of a disaster kit for this scenario. These items will make sure light and electricity will be within easy reach, allowing people to navigate through a blackout or make any emergency calls.
Remaining indoors and finding a safe interior room in the time of a hurricane is imperative for safety. Avoiding windows is also advised, as hurricanes bring high winds which can effortlessly pick up loose objects, which can become dangerous and simply shatter a window.
Staying alert and monitoring weather updates can assist in following the storm’s progress. If an evacuation is ordered, leave immediately. Try to stay away from flood waters, though it might just be shallow, it may still be dangerous due to hidden debris and strong currents.
Despite the intimidating size and media coverage of this inevitable natural event, with proper safety precautions safety can be maximized.
